Magic Johnson Does Not Believe Dodgers' TV Situation Is Hurting Team's Brand Locally

Dodgers investor Magic Johnson yesterday said that he "does not believe the team's virtual disappearance from local television has damaged its standing in the community," according to Bill Shaikin of the L.A. TIMES. Johnson added that he did think the lack of television exposure has damaged the team's brand or opportunity to turn L.A. "into a Dodgers town once again." Johnson said, "It's not hurting us. But we want to be on TV. You know that." Shaikin notes the Dodgers are in the second year of a 25-year, $8.35B TV contract with Time Warner Cable, yet they "remain off the air in about 70% of local households." Johnson said that the Dodgers' management team "had discussed the situation as recently as Tuesday," though he offered "no specifics." Johnson: "There are things going on. There are meetings. There are people talking. There's nothing we can tell you right now. But we are trying. We are working hard" (L.A. TIMES, 4/16).